Boracay reopens: What you need to know before traveling

Boracay, a world-renowned white-sand beach paradise in the Philippines, reopened to local travelers on October 1, 2020.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Philippines released an inspiring video to give travelers a glimpse of what awaits in the island paradise.

The DOT issued a quick guide on the requirements, processes, and health and safety protocols for a more seamless and enjoyable visit to Boracay.

Who can travel to Boracay

• Travelers who underwent RT-PCR and are negative for COVID-19 not earlier than 48 hours prior to traveling to Boracay

• Visitors from destinations under a General Community Quarantine (GCQ) classification, provided that they test negative for COVID-19 thru RT-PCR

• Travelers below 21 and above 60 years old, with no comorbidity

Things to do before traveling to Boracay

Test before you travel

A negative RT-PCR result not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours prior to traveling to Boracay is mandatory. Travelers are strongly advised to observe strict quarantine immediately after undergoing the test until the traveling date to the island.

Book in DOT-accredited hotels and resorts only

To ensure safety and the quality of service, all travelers are required to pre-book in DOT-accredited hotels and resorts issued with a Certificate of Authority to Open.

Register your visit online

1. Access http://aklan.gov.ph. Click the Online Health Declaration Card button then choose Boracay in the “Where To?” page.
2. Fill out the required fields and submit. The system will display a confirmation with instructions. 
3. Save a copy of the Health Declaration Card (HDC) on your smartphone or have it printed. 
4. Attach a copy of the HDC together with a copy of your RT-PCR Negative Result, confirmed flight and booking details, and your valid ID, then email it to touristboracay@gmail.com with this subject format: OHDC – Family Name, First Name (example: OHDC – Dela Cruz, Juan).  
5. Wait for the email response within the day. If approved, you will receive a copy of your HDC and Tourist QR Code. Present these to the authorities in the borders for scanning.

Leisure activities allowed as Boracay reopens

Dining – Restaurants are open with minimum public health standards in place.

Swimming – You can take a dip in designated swimming areas from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Watersports – Different watersports such as parasailing, kite surfing, jet skiing, among others, are allowed at a reduced capacity.

Travel tips when planning a trip to Boracay

Don’t travel if you’re feeling under the weather.

Protect your health and the well-being of others. If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, sore throat, difficulty breathing, etc.), please rebook your trip and consult a doctor.

Remember to register before swimming in the ocean.

Go to designated beach stations and have your temperature checked before going into the water. You can swim in the marked areas between red and yellow flags from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

No face mask + No face shield = No Ride in all public vehicles.

Keep your safety gear on and observe proper physical distancing when riding public transport. The number of passengers allowed is a maximum of two passengers on tricycles and four passengers on e-trikes.

Get tested only in licensed labs.

Ensure that you are getting your RT-PCR Tests in accredited laboratories only. 

Keep your tourist QR code with you at all times.

Have a printed copy on hand or a digital copy on your smartphone. You will use the QR Code in accessing services in Boracay Island.

Featured image courtesy of Vendell Vitto Feyzioglu

For more travel ideas and inspiration, click here.